How To Reach Havelock Island
Complete Guide to Reaching Havelock Island
Havelock Island, a jewel in the crown of the Andaman Islands, beckons travelers with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush rainforests. But before you can sink your toes into the soft sand, there’s the matter of getting there. This guide will be your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about reaching Havelock Island, from choosing the right travel mode to handy travel tips.
The Gateway: Port Blair
Havelock Island itself doesn’t have an airport. Your journey will begin by landing at Port Blair Airport, the capital city of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Several airlines operate regular flights to Port Blair from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai. Flight time varies depending on the origin city, but typically ranges between 2-4 hours.
Onward to Havelock: Ferries and More
Once you’ve arrived in Port Blair, it’s time to set sail for Havelock Island. Here’s a breakdown of your travel options:
The most popular and budget-friendly way to reach Havelock Island is by ferry. You can choose between two main options:
Government Ferries: These ferries are a great choice for budget travelers. They are slower than private ferries, taking around 2.5 hours for the journey. Tickets are typically inexpensive and can be booked up to three days in advance. However, availability can be limited, especially during peak season.
Private Ferries: Offering a faster and more comfortable option, private ferries like Makruzz and Green Ocean take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Havelock. These ferries are air-conditioned and often have amenities like cafeterias and entertainment facilities onboard. Tickets can be booked online in advance, ensuring a hassle-free arrival.
Helicopter: For those seeking a quicker and more scenic option, helicopters are available for hire. The flight time from Port Blair to Havelock Island is a mere 15 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the archipelago. However, this is the most expensive mode of transport.
Seaplane: While not as common as helicopters, seaplanes are another option for a luxurious and scenic journey. The travel time and cost are comparable to helicopters.
Choosing Your Mode of Transport:
The best option for you depends on your budget, travel style, and preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Budget Traveler: Opt for a government ferry for the most affordable option.
Time Conscious Traveler: Choose a private ferry for a faster journey.
Luxury Seeker: If budget isn’t a concern, consider a helicopter or seaplane for a unique experience.
Prone to Seasickness: If you’re prone to seasickness, a helicopter or seaplane might be a better option compared to ferries.
Distance and Travel Time:
Here’s a quick reference for the distance and travel time from Port Blair to Havelock Island:
- Government Ferry: Distance – 70 kilometers (approx.), Travel Time – 2.5 hours
- Private Ferry: Distance – 70 kilometers (approx.), Travel Time – 1.5 to 2 hours
- Helicopter: Distance – 70 kilometers (approx.), Travel Time – 15 minutes
- Seaplane: Distance – 70 kilometers (approx.), Travel Time (Varies depending on the specific seaplane) – Typically around 30 minutes
Booking Your Tickets:
Government Ferries: Tickets can be booked up to three days in advance at the Andaman Sheelabhavan Booking Counter in Port Blair.
Private Ferries: It’s recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season (October to March) to avoid disappointment. Websites of the ferry companies like Makruzz and Green Ocean can be used for booking.
Helicopter/Seaplane: Bookings for helicopters and seaplanes can be made through private charter companies operating in Port Blair.
Important Travel Tips:
- Plan in Advance: Especially during peak season, booking your ferry tickets or flight (if opting for a seaplane) well in advance is crucial.
- Carry essentials: Pack light clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget seasickness medication if you’re prone to it while traveling by ferry.
- Check the weather: The Andaman Islands experience heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (May to September). Aim for the dry season (October to March) for the best weather conditions.
- Carry Cash: While some ferry operators and shops accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases and emergencies. ATMs are available in Port Blair and Havelock
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By Air:
- Flights: The most common and convenient way to reach the Andaman Islands is by taking a flight from major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. The Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair Airport) is the main airport in the Andaman Islands, and it connects the islands to mainland India.
By Sea:
- Passenger Ships: There are passenger ships operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services that connect the Andaman Islands with the mainland. These ships depart from cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. The journey by ship takes longer compared to a flight (usually around 3-4 days) but can be a unique experience if you have the time and want to enjoy the sea voyage.
Cruise Ships: Occasionally, cruise ships also visit the Andaman Islands. These are a more luxurious option and typically offer shorter stays on the islands as part of a larger itinerary.
Entry Permits and Documentation:
- Ensure that you have the necessary entry permits and documentation to visit the Andaman Islands. Indian nationals need no special permits, but foreigners do. You can obtain these permits upon arrival at the Port Blair Airport or through an Indian embassy or consulate before your trip.
The best time to visit the Andaman Islands in India is typically between November and April. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant, and the sea conditions are calm, making it ideal for various water activities and beach vacations. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in the Andaman Islands:
Winter (November to February): This is the peak tourist season. The weather is dry, and the temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The sea is calm, making it perfect for activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports. It’s an excellent time to explore the underwater beauty of the islands.
Pleasant Weather: The weather during these months is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It’s comfortable for outdoor activities, exploring the beaches, and enjoying water sports.
Calm Seas: The sea conditions are usually calm, making it ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities. The clear waters and underwater visibility are excellent during this time.
Festivals and Events: The Andaman Islands often host various festivals and events during the winter season, providing travelers with the opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
To reach Andaman you need to take flight from your nearby Airport to Portblair there is no Facility of Railways as Andaman is a Island.
If you are planning Andaman Tour then you should come in between October to March this is the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
You just need to choose your suitable Package and come to portblair rest will be handled by Etripto.in.
If you want to go Havelock or Neil Island then you need to book ferry tickets which run between Portblair to Havelock and Havelock to Neil Island through ferry you can easily reach Havelock or Neil Island.
Most attractive points in Andaman are Portblair,Havelock Island, Neil Island,Radha Nagar Beach,Elephanta Beach,Laxmanpur Beach,Bharatpur Beach,Chidiyatapu you must include these places in your itinerary.
In Andman you can do Water Activities in North Bay Island or Havelock and Neil Island.
Contact Etripto.in (Spice Holiday) for best Packages of Andaman which should be 6 Days and 5 Nights included Portblair,Havelock and Neil Island.
- The Andaman Islands are home to some of the world’s oldest tribes, such as the Sentinelese and Great Andamanese.
- Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island is often ranked among the top beaches globally for its pristine beauty.
- The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their lush rainforests, teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
- Cellular Jail in Port Blair served as a notorious British colonial prison during India’s struggle for independence.
- The islands are a popular destination for scuba diving due to their clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
- The only active volcano in South Asia, Barren Island, is located in the Andaman Sea.
- The Andaman Islands are a union territory of India, situated in the Bay of Bengal.
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park protects the marine life and ecosystems around the islands.
- The indigenous Jarawa people inhabit the Andaman Islands and have limited contact with the outside world.
- Ross Island, once the administrative headquarters during British rule, now stands in ruins and is a popular tourist attraction.